Cesc Fabregas has admitted that he will "always" feel linked with Arsenal, despite opting to sign for London rivals Chelsea in the summer.

The Spain international has impressed for the Blues after moving from Barcelona to Stamford Bridge for a reported £28m.

Prior to his three-year stint at Camp Nou, Fabregas represented Arsenal for eight years and eventually took the captain's armband in Arsene Wenger's side.

"I will always have the feeling of being a Gunner," the Daily Star quotes Fabregas as saying. "I know when I go back to play at the Emirates it will be a special moment, but I am a committed guy.

"I remember playing for Arsenal against Barcelona in a Champions League final, and swearing that I'd do anything to win that game, despite having been with Barca since I was a kid.

"So when the Arsenal game comes around I will know who I'm playing for, who my teammates are and who I have to defend against. I know that the Arsenal fans will understand me. I have no doubts."

Fabregas will face his former club for the first time this season at Stamford Bridge on October 5.